Spring Hydrant Flushing & Winter Safety Tips
Gordon’s Corner Water Company provides public fire service to 1,150 hydrants in Marlboro and Manalapan Townships.
You can do your part to help protect your neighborhood by making sure all snow is cleared from around the hydrant closest to your house and by reporting any visible damage to the hydrants to us immediately so repairs can be made.
Spring Hydrant Flushing (Annually in March, April and May):
Gordon’s Corner Water flushes it’s fire hydrants every Spring in the Marlboro and Manalapan service territories. This is an essential part of the system maintenance program, because it helps the company to continue to provide you with high-quality water service.
To clean the system, Gordon’s Corner Water systematically opens fire hydrants to increase water flows, allowing “flushing” of minerals and deposits from the pipes. While flushing the system, there is no interruption in your water service. When crews are working in your area, you may notice a temporary drop in water pressure or discolored water. This is normal. If this happens, simply let your cold water run until it is clear from the highest point in the home. For example, if your home is two stories, you would run the cold water in the tub until it runs clear. DO NOT USE ANY HOT WATER if you are experiencing discolored water!
Customer Tips During Spring Flushing
Avoid running your tap water and using the washing machine or dishwasher while crews are flushing in your area. If discolored water occurs, simply run the cold water for a few minutes until it clears from the highest point in the home. Check for discolored water before using the washing machine or dishwasher. Wait until the water runs clear at the tap before doing laundry or running the dishwasher. NOTE: If your laundry becomes stained, DO NOT PUT YOUR LAUNDRY IN THE DRYER. Rewash clothes immediately using detergent and add a rust remover. Most rust removers can also be used on stained fixtures.
In some cases, slight discoloration might linger for a few hours. This discoloration only affects the appearance of the water and does not affect water quality. No health hazards are associated with discolored water from hydrant flushing. If water pressure or water volume seems low after flushing has been completed, check your faucet screens for trapped particles. It is anticipated that the flushing program will be ongoing for approximately 6 to 8 weeks. During this period, please place garbage and recycling containers behind the curb to avoid obstruction along gutter areas. We will be conducting this operation during both the day and evening hours.
Tips During Winter Months
Avoid freezing pipes and water service leaks during the winter months. Keep heat at a comfortable temperature and ensure that the meter is protected from freezing by wrapping with insulation or a blanket. Keep pipes that are located inside cabinets exposed to the heat by leaving the cabinet doors open. Water can be left at a slow drip to avoid freezing from the highest faucet in your home. If your meter cracks from freezing, there is a fee for replacing your meter. Please keep all snow clear from fire hydrants located on or near your property to ensure usage in an emergency. Contact our office at 732-946-9333 for any updates.